Buying Vs Renting

Nevertheless, most manufactures will allow you to buy a machine outright, if you really want one. However, only Pitney Bowes publishes purchase prices online whereas Neopost, FP Mailing and Frama do not.

Based on the prices published by Pitney Bowes, new models will generally cost between £1,000 and £25,000 to purchase outright.

Buying New vs Used

If the price for a new machine seems prohibitive, you can always buy a used machine. Some older models can cost as little as £495! But before you do buy used you should be aware of the following things:

It may be more difficult to buy supplies, inclucind ink for older model as manufacturers stop supporting them.

It may cost more to repair an older model due to lack of replacement parts.

In the worst case scenario, Royal Mail can declare that your model is no longer authorised to frank mail.

Other things to know before buying a franking machine

Finally, before deciding to buy a franking machine you should be aware that Royal Mail requires that every franking machine owner is licenced. Part of the licence agreement that you need to have your machine inspected and maintained at least once a year.

Now most rental and lease agreements will include this as part of the contract. But when you buy, you have to arrange this separately and needs to be factored into any cost considerations.

However, rental contracts may also specify who you have to buy your supplies from. For example, a lease supplier may offer a low initial price, but then specify in the contract that you have to buy ink from them, which has a higher markup than alternative suppliers.

Therefore, owning a machine can result in much lower costs for supplies such as ink, envelopes, labels, etc.

Buying Advantages

You own the machine, so no need to pay a monthly lease or rental fee each month.

You can buy supplies including ink from any supplier you choose.

Save even more money if you buy a used machine

Can result in lower lifetime costs

Buying Disadvantages

Need to arrange inspection and maintenance agreements separately

Potentially more expensive to repair your machine if it breaks

Used machines not be Mailmark compatible

Higher initial cost (at least £495 vs £20 for a rental contract).

More limited supply of newer machines, since some manufactures may be reluctant to sell you their latest models outright.

Risk of your model becoming obsolete, rendering it unusable

What to do next?

If you’re still not sure about which option is right for you, why not get some free quotes to help you compare all your options.